Results for "RV types"

Solar Batteries Medium 4-8 hours 98 👍 0

Complete RV Solar System Guide 2024: Sizing, Installation & Wiring

Turned to YouTube for RV solar advice and now I'm more confused than ever - probably a dumb question, but how do I actually size this thing? Could fellow RV owners share details about their current solar setups?

Please provide insights on:
- Total system watts
- Fixed or portable panels
- Rigid or flexible panel types
- Series or parallel wiring configuration
- Total system amps
- System voltage
- Wire gauge used
- Controller type
- Personal pros and cons of your current setup
- What you might change in a future installation

These details will help establish baseline specifications for a fleet installation project. …more

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General Hard 3-4 hours 94 👍 0

How to Replace a Broken RV Front Shock Mount - Part ID Guide

Tried to avoid a costly repair by checking first — would my RV's front shock mount bracket failure where the shock absorber connects to the chassis be covered under warranty? The bracket appears to be chassis-specific hardware, but I'm unable to locate the correct part number through standard parts diagrams - it shows as a grayed-out component without identification in the technical documentation I've found.

What is the proper procedure for identifying and sourcing this type of suspension mounting hardware? The bracket sits adjacent to part 3A010 in the assembly and appears to be a critical structural component for proper shock absorber attachment. …more

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Engine Medium 1-2 hours for installation 90 👍 0

Sailun TerraMax HLT-C Tire Review: Are They Right for Your Class C Motorhome?

Since I'm planning to swap out my RV tires this Saturday — need to confirm these Sailun TerraMax HLT-C 225/75R16C E/10PLY tires are compatible with my Class C motorhome. I've been looking at the Sailun TerraMax HLT-C 225/75R16C E/10PLY tires since they seem like a good value, but I'm not sure if they're appropriate for a motorhome versus a trailer.

I know load ratings are important, but I'm honestly not entirely sure how to figure out if these tires would work safely on my rig. Should I be looking at my door placard or getting the actual weight measured? Any guidance would be really helpful since I don't want to make a costly mistake with something as important as tires. …more

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Best RV Surge Protectors

4.6 (14,200 reviews)

Electrical Medium 1-2 hours 89 👍 0

RV PEX Plumbing Fittings Guide: Crimp vs SharkBite vs FIP Connections Explained

Got what's probably a dumb question, but why do I have like three different types of PEX fittings in my RV and which ones should I actually be using for repairs? The current setup has what I believe are crimp rings on the PEX lines, but I'm seeing different types of fittings available and I'm confused about which approach is best for a DIY repair.

I've been looking at compression fittings, push-to-connect options like SharkBite, and traditional crimp rings, but I'm not sure which system actually works with RV PEX plumbing. Some of my connections are also threaded at the water pump and manifold areas, and I keep seeing references to FIP connections but I'm not entirely clear on what that means in the context of RV plumbing.

What's the difference between these connection types for RV PEX systems, and which option would be easiest for someone doing their own plumbing repairs? I want to make sure I'm using the right fittings and tools before I start tearing into my water system. …more

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Electrical Medium 30 minutes to 2 hours 85 👍 0

RV Red Fault Light No Power: How to Fix Partial Electrical Outage

Tried rewiring my RV's electrical system yesterday but something still doesn't seem right — red fault light is on and half my outlets have no power. My Class A has this red fault light glaring at me from the power panel, but it's not a total blackout situation. AC is running fine (thank goodness!), but my fridge, microwave, and some outlets decided to take a vacation.

I already tried the usual suspects - reset every GFCI I could find inside and messed with the main power cord panel outside where shore power comes in. Still got that annoying red light mocking me.

This partial power thing is driving me nuts. What should I be checking next to get everything back online? …more

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Electrical Easy 30 minutes 81 👍 0

How to Test and Replace RV Propane Gas Detectors: Complete Safety Guide for RV Owners

Since I moved into my 21 year old RV, I discovered the previous owner left the propane gas detectors in terrible shape and now I'm paranoid about potential leaks. I've updated my RV with a new hardwired 12-volt combination carbon monoxide/gas detector with battery backup in the bedroom, but I want to be extra sure.

My detector seems to work when I hit the test button, but honestly I'm not 100% sure that's really testing if it would catch actual propane.

Is there a safe way to test these things with actual gas? And while I'm asking - how often should I be replacing the detector itself? Mine's probably ancient and I have no idea if these things go bad over time. Also wondering if where I mounted it matters - seen some people put them up high, others down low. …more

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Chassis Easy 30 minutes 80 👍 0

Locking Air Chuck Extensions for RV Dual Wheel Tires

Halfway through trying to air up my RV's dual rear tires with my new Ryobi 18v ONE+ compressor, I realized I can't reach the valve stems properly. I need to add about 110 PSI, and the front tires are no problem. The inner rear? Also fine. But that outer rear tire with the valve stem pointing toward the center of the rig? That's where my dignity goes to die.

I'm out there doing some kind of yoga pose, contorting myself to hold the regular chuck on the valve stem while simultaneously trying to keep my balance and not drop the hose. I watched another RVer breeze through this same task with some kind of extension that actually LOCKED onto the valve stem - no circus act required!

What is this magical device called, and can I somehow adapt it to work with my portable compressor? I'm tired of looking like I'm trying out for Cirque du Soleil every time I need to add 10 PSI! …more

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Engine Easy N/A - informational 79 👍 0

Complete Luxury Motorhome Buying Guide for Retirement Full-Time RV Living & Travel

My husband just casually mentioned we're about to drop our entire retirement nest egg on a luxury motorhome when neither of us knows anything about RVs.

I keep hearing different brand names thrown around but honestly have no clue which ones give you the most bang for your buck in that mid-range luxury space. Also wondering if I should buy new or let someone else take the depreciation hit? And what features should I absolutely not compromise on for full-time living?

Just want to make sure I'm not learning expensive lessons after I hand over the cash! …more

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Engine Medium 30-45 minutes to evaluate performance 79 👍 0

Quad Shock Setup on Ford F-53 Chassis - Performance Review

Looked everywhere and my F-53 chassis is still showing 2.1 inches of body roll with quad shocks installed, but forums claim it should be under 1 inch. As a former high school auto mechanics instructor with 35 years of experience, I've carefully considered the shock design challenges in RV suspension.

I installed additional shocks after discovering that shock suppliers list a single shock design for F-53 chassis ranging from 16,000 to 26,000 lbs. I used Koni shocks ($170 each) and supplemented with Monroe shocks ($75 each) for additional dampening.

Installation required 10" bottom bolts and modified top mounting. I used hardened washers to prevent shock cover contact. Total bolt modification cost was approximately $18.

Completed a 30-mile test drive with no apparent harshness or negative handling characteristics. The suspension feels more controlled during normal driving conditions, but this limited test may not reveal the full performance picture.

What's the recommended approach for thoroughly evaluating quad shock performance on the F-53 platform? Specifically looking for guidance on testing duration, road conditions to assess, and key performance indicators to monitor during the break-in period. …more

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Solar Batteries Medium 2-4 hours 77 👍 0

How to Fix Parasitic Battery Drain in 2006 Damon Challenger RV: Complete Troubleshooting Guide

I found three different "experts" telling me three different causes for my 2006 Damon Challenger's parasitic battery drain - neighbor blames the converter, dealer says bad fuse, YouTube points to inverter. I've traced it to the instrument cluster fuse, and Thor doesn't have schematics for this model due to its age.

I'm not even sure if it's actually the instrument cluster itself or something connected to it - could it be the transmission temp sensor, engine temp sensor, or other wiring? I really don't want to damage anything expensive or create a safety hazard. What's the safest way to diagnose and fix this without causing more problems? I'd feel much better with a step-by-step approach that won't leave me stranded or worse. …more

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Exterior Medium 1-2 hours 74 👍 0

How to Replace RV Slide-Out T-Track Bulb Seals: Complete DIY Guide

I noticed my 2005 Gulfstream Crescendo's slide-out T-track bulb seal has deteriorated for the third time this season and I'm done replacing it blindly. The existing seal fits into a T-track configuration with specific dimensional requirements - the track opening is approximately 3/16" wide with the T-head measuring 3/8" at its widest point.

Standard automotive or hardware store seals don't appear to match these specifications. What's the proper methodology for sourcing replacement T-track bulb seals that will fit correctly? Also seeking guidance on preparation procedures to ensure proper installation and seal longevity. …more

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Best RV Sewer Hoses & Kits

4.6 (31,500 reviews)

Solar Batteries Hard Professional diagnosis 72 👍 0

How to Fix Magnum ME2012 Inverter 50 Amp Fault Code and Breaker Tripping Safely

Replaced the DC connections on my Monaco Cayman's Magnum ME2012 inverter per the manual, but I'm still getting 50 amp fault codes and breaker trips. The remote console is consistently showing a 50 amp reading, which I know isn't normal operation. When I watch the unit go through its self-test sequence, it connects initially but then flashes several times before failing completely. The fault light starts flashing on and off intermittently, and eventually the shore power breaker trips entirely.

What's really concerning is that my batteries aren't charging at all during this process. I've read through the manual and it mentions that the inverter might need a reset to clear fault conditions, but I'm not sure if that's the right approach here or if there's something more serious going on. The combination of the 50A fault display, failed self-test, and the shore power breaker tripping makes me think this could be a significant electrical problem.

What steps should I take to diagnose whether this is a simple reset issue or if my ME2012 inverter has a more serious internal problem that needs professional attention? …more

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Chassis Medium 2-3 hours for evaluation 70 👍 0

Class A to Class C Downsizing: Technical Guide for RVers

I woke up to the reality that downsizing from our 36-foot Class A motorhome to a smaller 30-foot Class C Forest River Forester means dealing with technical issues I know absolutely nothing about. While we were initially concerned about losing too much living space and storage, we've found the compact layout surprisingly functional for our essential gear and belongings. We're currently pulling our compact SUV behind it using a tow dolly setup. I'm wondering what technical considerations other RVers have encountered when making this type of downsizing transition, particularly regarding weight distribution, towing capacity changes, and any mechanical adjustments needed for the different chassis types. …more

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General Easy N/A 70 👍 0

When to Buy a Used Class A Diesel Motorhome: Best Times for Deals

Pulled into three dealerships expecting to find a decent used Class A diesel motorhome within budget, but they're all quoting me $20K+ over what I can afford. When during the year do dealers typically have the best deals and inventory turnover?

Also curious about when to avoid shopping due to high demand and higher prices. Any insights on seasonal buying patterns would be helpful. …more

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Engine Easy 1 hour 69 👍 0

Ford V10 Lower Radiator Hose Replacement: Complete RV Repair Guide

Standing next to my Ford V10 E350 staring at this lower radiator hose that's clearly shot and needs replacing before my next trip. The complex multi-segment design of the V10's lower hose system has me a bit concerned about the replacement process, especially since I've heard these can be tricky to install properly.

Specifically, I need to understand the complete procedure from start to finish. What's the proper way to drain the coolant system before starting? Are there any special considerations for hose selection or clamp replacement that I should know about? Most importantly, what's the correct bleeding procedure afterward - I've heard air pockets can be a real problem with the V10 cooling system if not done properly.

I'm planning to tackle this myself in my driveway, so I want to be fully prepared with the right steps and any tips that will help ensure the job goes smoothly without any cooling system issues down the road. …more

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